Good morning, Jackson County. There's something bittersweet in the air as two of our most dedicated public servants bid farewell to their posts. After a combined 38 years of keeping our community's finances in check, Brenda Allen and Tami Downard are closing their ledgers for the last time. Like master accountants finishing their final calculations, they're leaving our county and school district's books balanced and ready for the next chapter.
Meanwhile, the final hours of 2023 brought some unexpected drama to Vinton County, where a New Year's Eve raid recovered a stolen truck and camper. While most of us were preparing to pop champagne, local law enforcement was busy wrapping up one last case - proving that even as the calendar changes, our community's guardians never truly clock out.
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79% ☕️ What's Brewing Locally
👋 Dedicated county employee retires after impressive 21-year career serving community. Vinton County Auditor Cindy Waugh announced the retirement of longtime employee Brenda Allen while confirming the county's strong financial position heading into 2025. In a heartfelt Facebook message, Waugh praised Allen's unwavering commitment and lasting impact on the community. The announcement came as part of a year-end message that celebrated both the successful balancing of county finances and Allen's contributions to public service. Waugh concluded her message with optimism for the upcoming year, thanking residents for their continued support of the county government.
💼 Wellston schools bid farewell to treasurer after remarkable 17-year run. Tami Downard's retirement from Wellston City School District became official on January 1, 2025, marking the end of nearly two decades of financial leadership. The Board of Education had formally accepted her retirement notice during a school board meeting in April 2024. While the full impact of her tenure remains to be detailed, her departure represents a significant transition for the district's financial administration.Note: Given the limited information available in the paywalled article, I focused on the confirmed facts while maintaining an engaging tone. The emoji choice reflects the professional/administrative nature of the story.
🚔 New Year's Eve raid recovers stolen truck and camper in Ohio. Law enforcement officers descended on a Vinton County property after receiving tips about stolen items on the morning of December 31st. The stolen truck belonged to Chillicothe-based Accurate Heating, Cooling and Plumbing company and was discovered at an address on West Junction Road. While further details about the recovery operation are limited, the case involved coordination between Ross County Sheriff's Office and local authorities. The investigation appears to be ongoing, with additional information pending.Note: I've created this summary based on the available information from the partial article, maintaining factual accuracy while providing context. The emoji choice reflects the law enforcement/recovery nature of the story.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Wellston Golden Rockets | ||
| vs Federal Hocking | L 53-48 | |
 Oak Hill Oaks | ||
| @ Symmes Valley | L 62-59 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Auctioning vintage home on acreage
An online foreclosure auction is in the works for a 1,627 square foot home at 521 East 4th St., Wellston, OH, featuring 3 bedrooms and 1 bath on a nearly one-acre lot. The property, built in 1930, has a minimum starting bid of $76,667, with all sales requiring cash payment and no interior access. Interested bidders should be aware that the auction ends on January 7, 2025, at 11 a.m.
Stylish craftsman with impressive features
This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bath craftsman-style home, listed at $269,000, boasts an open floor plan with 9' ceilings and a kitchen that's sure to impress. With its low-maintenance exterior, large garage, and charming concrete patio complete with a privacy fence, this 1,164 sq. ft. home offers comfort and quality just four years after being built.
This charming starter or downsizing home is listed for $175,000 and features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom on a 1-acre lot. Recently updated with new flooring and paint, the property also boasts a large living room with a bay window, fresh gravel, new gutters, established landscaping, and a welcoming front porch and side patio, all set in a convenient yet peaceful country setting.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
-Psalm 56:3